Mark Levinson 27.5 or 331 power amp?

I think the overall midrange and trebble character of the two amps (23.5 and 27.5) are similar. The 23.5 has more bass impact and seems to go deeper into the depths of the lower registers. I am not really familiar with the 300 series sound, but I can say that I am quite happy with the sound of both the 27.5 and 23.5. These both can be bought for quite a bit less than a 300 series. II don't think you would be disappointed with either the 23.5 or the 27.5. Only you can decide if it is worth spending the extra money for a 300 series amp.

How much power do you need?

Good luck with your search and happy listening.

Well everybody I have ended up with the 331, it just had a touch more bass extension and control that the 27.5, tonally slightly richer, however I would still recommend the 27.5 to anyone.
P.S I have just slotted a Nagra PLP preamp into my system which allows the Wadia 860x to run on full gain with simply astounding results. I believe that this quality of preamp more readily allows you to hear the overall gains the 331 has over the 27.5.

Hey Mstram

after talking with you and what you said you hear from the two amps. I think i'll shoot for the 23.5 i'm talking with a guy now about a deal.

Moemoney, did you ever score the 23.5? If so, are you pleased with the sound?

Yes I did pick up the 23.5, and it sounds very good in my system. But I don't think I'm getting any deeper bass, but the bass is way more detailed and the overall sound is more layback at higher volumes which is a plus for me.